Try new things!

Break-The -Fast! Nothing could break the fast better than this breakfast! Thick steel oats with blueberries and almond butter. This almond butter is so delicious! It is Marantha brand, which I have heard not so positive things about. I figured I would give it a try to see what all the rant was about. I LOVE it, I might be addicted to a new nut butter!

Lunch:

I steamed a TON of locally grown Kale with capers and lemon juice (in the microwave). I swear, I could eat a pound of Kale without flinching. The lemon juice and salty capers just make such a great addition to the dark, leafy green. Plus, Kale provides tons of folic acid, fiber, and Vitamin A !  Did you know Kale is actually considered a cruciferous veggie, in the family with Broccili and Cauliflower and Brussels… ? Pretty cook cool huh?

I paired my greens with Garlic & Herb Tuna ( great source of Protein, Iron and Omega 3’s to help get those nutrients absorbed) and fresh celery & cucs for some serious crunching. Celery and cucumbers are so refreshing and crunchy- they are a GREAT way to get rid of your “munchies” !

Dinner

Chili with Organic Baby Greens- This was the same brand as the soup I tried the other day ( it was on sale so I thought I would try) “Kettle Cuisine”.  This guy came up with it for his daughter… anyhow.. I love the nutrient profile (high protein, 250 kcal, good fiber) and the flavor was superb for this chili. My friends have told me that I make “the best chili ever”, I don’t know if I really live up to that. However, I much appreciate the compliments and I would prefer to eat my own homemade version since it is way less expensive and just as healthy as this Kettle Cuisine frozen variety. Even though I ate this at home today (I was tired and it has been such a cold, rainy day meant this was perfect!), this would be a great ” on the go” option to take to work or school!

I made a quick Maple Mustard Vinaigrette from scratch for the greens. I just simply whisked EFA oil, Mustard, Maple Syrup together in near equal parts…

* I also had a bunch of Hershey’s Kisses – 9 to be exact-

Body:
Gym Time- Run 4 miles, Resistance Training Chest, Shoulders, Triceps and Hamstrings. Missed Yoga because of metabolism :-/ ah well, my favorite instructor Claudia wasn’t going to be there anyhow AND I needed to study!

Mind:
Teaching Assistant: I led the discussion for Folate and B 12 today and I also answered all the questions for their first exam on thursday! This semester has really showed me how fun teaching can be and I’m excited for this class to get more challenging with pathways for metabolizing fat and protein – those are fun to explain!

MNT Exam is tomorrow morning! I reviewed everything, re-wrote all my notes, I feel okay, confident, not too confident. Phew, wish me luck!

My wednesday evening class ( nutrition education and counseling) professor had her baby!! I am not sure but I think another professor is substituting so we’ll see how that goes!

Soul:
I caught up on The Bachelor ( Did anyone else feel awkward for Vienna?? I can’t believe she is still in it! ) and Biggest Loser tonight- Weight loss stories are so inspirational.

I need yoga (note to self). I just found out a previous co-worker of mine is now teaching at a “donation” studio downtown (the typical donation is $10 /class). I can afford one or two but I couldn’t go everyday! I might have to try it out, especially because she teaches hot yoga which I have been so eager to try!

***Bailey is on medicine and doing MUCH better- I think it was all of your thoughts and puppy prayers!